Top Dentists 2013

For the sixth year running, 5280 partnered with topDentists to find the 645 very best dentists in Denver and beyond. Turn the page to find a dentist who’s right for you—and tips for keeping your smile healthy at any age.

Methodology

How the Top Dentists List is Created

This list is excerpted from the 2013 topDentists database, which is created from peer evaluations and includes listings for nearly 700 dentists and specialists in Colorado alone. To compile this list, topDentists asked dentists and specialists a personal question: “If you had a patient in need of a dentist, which dentist would you refer him or her to?” The nomination pool consisted of all active dentists listed online with the American Dental Association, as well as with dental academies and societies. (Dentists could also nominate themselves or others who may not be on those lists.) Respondents were asked to consider experience, continuing education, manner with patients, use of new techniques and technologies, and physical results. Once responses were compiled, dentists were checked against state dental boards for disciplinary actions to make sure they have an active license and are in good standing. Of course, there are many fine dentists who are not included in this list, and a dentist’s inclusion is based on the subjective judgments of fellow dentists. For more information, visit usatopdentists.com.

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Specialties

Endodontist: Treats issues related to nerves and the inner portions of the tooth, like root-canal therapy.

General Dentist: Performs preventive dental care and basic upkeep, like cleanings and X-rays.

Periodontist: Specializes in the periodontium, or supporting tooth structure, to treat gum disease and receding gums.

Prosthodontist: Deals with dentures, implants, and bridges, as well as complex crown work.

Tykes (Birth to school age)

Family Affair

Good oral hygiene will keep your kids happy and healthy and help them do better in school. As a parent, you are your child’s best role model. Here, four tips* to help make brushing and flossing a habit at an early age.
Before your child’s teeth even come in, wrap your
finger in a washcloth and wipe his or her gums. It gets kids comfortable with the brushing process.
Make an appointment with the dentist as soon as your child’s first tooth arrives (age two at the latest). Forty percent of children get their first cavity before age four.
Introduce flossing as early as possible. Floss daily in front of your children and then help them until they get the hang of it on their own.
Buy a fun toothbrush (with soft bristles) and flavored kids’ toothpaste to make the routine more exciting. Adult toothpastes can be too harsh on children’s sensitive mouths.
*Sources: Dr. Jeff Hurst and Delta Dental of Colorado Foundation

Young Adults

Tarnished

So you’re finally living on your own. No parents to ask what time you’re coming home (or to do your laundry). You’re officially an adult. Of course, that also means you have a lot more responsibilities—including looking after your oral health. Keep those pearly whites healthy (and white) by limiting intake of these decay-causing and teeth-staining foods.Alcohol (especially red wine)CoffeeTeaGrapefruitSticky CandyPotato ChipsCarbonated Soft DrinksDried Fruit

Older Adults (Age 50+)

Side Effect

People are living longer and keeping their real teeth well into their 80s and 90s. That should be good news, right? Yes and no. The amount of saliva in our mouths, which helps dilute acids and remove debris from our teeth, remains steady as we age. But when we get older, we tend to take more medications—and many of those (for high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, etc.) can dry out our mouths. “That changes the entire field of play,” says Lakewood-based general dentist Dr. Jeff Hurst. “Aggressive acid and bacteria can destroy teeth in just eight to 12 weeks.” So what can you do? Follow Hurst’s guidelines
to maintain optimal tooth health.

Read the side effects of your medication carefully, and tell your dentist what meds you’re on. Your general practitioner may be able to switch your prescription to something less likely to cause decay.

Use daily rinses such as Sensodyne Oasis or Biotène to counteract the drying effect.

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The American Society of Interior Designers' (ASID) Colorado Chapter decorated the Governor's Residence for the holidays. Holiday tours, free and open to the public, will take place December 8-11 and December 15-18 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. All photos by Sarah Boyum